It all started in 1903 when Arthur and Walter Davidson partnered with William Harley to build an all-American motor-bicycle. Today, Harley-Davidson is not just the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S.; it has cultivated a dedicated fan base, including exclusive clubs like The Harley Owners Group (HOG) that only allow Harleys. After more than a century, here are 15 of the most beloved Harley-Davidson bikes ever made.

Harley-Davidson VRSCDX Night Rod Special

If you ever ride the VRSCDX Night Rod Special, remember it has an insane 1,247cc liquid-cooled DOHC Revolution engine that Porsche helped develop. For context, this engine endured the rigorous Dusseldorf Test, simulating Germany’s Autobahn. This all-black street-fighter-inspired cruiser has a 240mm ultra-wide rear tire that complements its performance and gives it a menacing look.

Harley-Davidson VR1000

Harley-Davidson built this all-American machine to challenge Japanese dominance in superbike racing. Harley recruited top riders like Miguel Duhamel, Scott Russell, Doug Chandler, and Pascal Picotte to boost its chances. Despite their star power, the VR1000 faced challenges and never truly dominated the track. With only 50 units, this model is as rare as Bigfoot.

Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy

After Louie Netz and Willie G. Davidson designed this model, Harley-Davidson tested and refined it for two years using customer feedback. This high-performance bike is still a fan favorite after 25 years because Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Terminator rode a Fat Boy on Terminator 2: Judgment Day. Then, it appeared on Seinfeld, CSI: Miami, Wild Hogs, and Sons of Anarchy.

LiveWire One

This model was so successful that Harley-Davidson had to launch its electric brand, LiveWire. Unlike traditional Harleys with rumbling engines, the LiveWire One is surprisingly silent. It has the H-D Revelation electric powertrain with 105bhp and 116Nm. Riders praise its perfect throttle response and enhancements like increased suspension, raised handlebars, and a user-friendly touchscreen that contributes to its impressive performance.

Harley-Davidson VRSCA V-Rod

The Harley-Davidson V-Rod was a game-changer. Its powerful performance and aggressive look attracted a new crowd, echoing Harley’s drag racing heritage. With triple four-piston Brembo brakes and a commanding presence, the V-Rod was the ideal model for motorcycle clubs. The noise from this huge 1,130cc liquid-cooled V-Twin Revolution Engine delivering up to 115 HP commands attention.

Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King

When Harley-Davidson released the Road King in 1994, it seamlessly replaced the Electra-Glide Sport. Designer Dais Nagao used minimalist chrome accents to highlight the V-Twin shape of the Milwaukee-Eight engine. Considering there are 4,000 units serving in the US Police force and Fire Departments, the Road King deserves a mention on this list for its significance.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250

Like several other bikes on this list, Harley-Davidson built the Pan America 1250 to explore new paths and attract an adventurous audience. You can say this model is the Swiss Army knife of motorcycling. Though modern, it has a Revolution Max 1,250cc engine and off-road tires with traction control that can run on pavement and dirt roads.

Harley-Davidson FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide

Harley made the FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide look aggressive with Tommy Gun 2-1-2 exhausts, a larger back end, and a chopped rear fender. One major positive review riders often give the Wide Glide is that it’s only 25.5 inches high, so the seat is low enough to allow many riders to reach the ground flat-footed.

Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight

The Forty-Eight is a bike with raw power and minimalist style. Its stripped-down design, fat tires, and low stance create a mean, muscular look. Likewise, its 1,200cc Evo engine, peanut tank, and low-drag-style handlebars make it a high-performance bike. Every other detail, including the Michelin Scorcher tires, the clean rear end, and the slammed handlebars, shows the brand’s rebellious attitude.

Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead

As a result of the Great Depression, the motorcycle industry had to innovate or die. While some manufacturers closed and others survived with careful investments, Harley-Davidson responded with the Knucklehead. Designed by the Davidson brothers and William Harley, this revolutionary twin-cylinder bike had overhead valves. This groundbreaking model laid the foundation for Harley’s future cruisers and tourers.

Harley-Davidson XR750

In 1970, Harley-Davidson built this motorcycle to compete with Japanese motorcycles. In addition to its powerful engine, it fitted a small fiberglass gas tank and aluminum-spoked wheel rim to reduce weight and increase performance. By 2008, the XR750 had won an impressive 29 AMA Grand National Championships out of 37. It’s also the choice ride of legendary stuntman Evel Knievel.

Harley-Davidson 11F

With the Harley-Davidson 11F’s three-speed transmission, motorcycle technology took a giant leap forward. It gave riders greater control and versatility when paired with an automatic oiler and massive intake valves that increased power output to 11 HP. While optional, Harley provided a full electrical system for the taillights and ignition.

Harley-Davidson Fat Bob

The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob combines a modern redesign with the classic bobber style. Its muscular stance and aggressive appeal surpass those of the Fat Boy and Nightster. Powered by Harley’s Milwaukee-Eight engine, the Fat Bob delivers impressive torque and a thrilling ride. Although the Fat Bob 114 will leave North American shores in 2024, it remains available in Europe, Britain, and Asia.

Harley-Davidson XL Sportster

In 2020, Harley-Davidson discontinued the original Sportster line in Europe when the engine didn’t meet Euro 5 emissions standards. Then, they built this model as a fitting replacement. Today, the Sportster is one of their longest-running bikes in production. Its longevity comes from a competitive price tag and features like the dual-spark ignition and fully adjustable suspension.

Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic

Since its inception in 1986, Harley’s Heritage Softail has become one of Harley’s most popular motorcycles. It’s highly requested for rentals at local dealers, which isn’t surprising, especially with its beautiful retro design, classic fenders, studded leather bags, and laced wheels. The Heritage Softail Classic is a touring bike without the bulk or fairings of other models.